Suggest a Great Place in America

APA Is Looking for Great Streets, Neighborhoods, and Public Spaces

As part of this initiative, APA needs your help in suggesting places that are great and merit such designation. We want you to suggest your favorite streets, neighborhoods, and public spaces across America, whether they are in your own city or town, in a place you've visited, or in a place you otherwise know about. Those selected for designation as a Great Neighborhood, Great Street, or Great Public Space will be recognized by APA during National Community Planning Month in October 2009.

Suggestions received through March 5, 2009, will be considered for Great Places in America designation in 2009.

What Makes a Great Place?

We all can think of a street, neighborhood, or public place that is unique or memorable, but what makes it special? What elements combine to produce a place that not only works for people in the community but rises far above the ordinary?

APA's selection guidelines will be considered in addition to other important factors such as geography, population, demographics, planning involvement, sustainable building, and setting (urban, suburban, rural). Consider these guidelines not as a checklist of "must-haves," but rather as important principles from which decisions about designated Great Places will be made.

Characteristics of Great Streets

Characteristics of Great Neighborhoods

Characteristics of Great Public Spaces

Make a Submission Online

Have a great street, neighborhood, or public space in mind?

Suggest a Great Place in America using our online form

If you're not logged in to APA's website, you'll be prompted to do so.

If you don't have an APA ID number but would still like to make a nomination, click "Create a Login ID" in the right hand column.

The online suggestion form may be started now and finished later. Changes to the form can be made up until you submit the suggestion. Suggestions are accepted continuously, however, we encourage you to complete the suggestion form or forms if making multiple recommendations by Thursday, March 5, 2009, so your recommended Great Place or Places can be considered for possible designation in 2009.

What Happens to Submitted Suggestions?

APA will review suggestions and request additional information those suggested neighborhoods, streets, and public spaces under consideration for designation in 2009. In October, APA will:

• Announce the 2009 Great Streets, Great Neighborhoods, and Great Public Spaces in early October
• Issue news releases nationally and locally about the 2009 designations
• Present each designated 2009 Great Place with a framed and matted certificate
• Coordinate attendance of APA representatives at local designation ceremonies in communities choosing to hold such events

Questions?

Direct questions or concerns to greatplaces@planning.org.